As the deployment of digital technology gathers increased momentum, Qube Cinema will showcase its second generation XP-D Digital Cinema server at CinemaCon today. The Qube XP-D Series 2 is fully DCI-compliant and designed to integrate seamlessly with all major Theater Management System (TMS) software, offering exhibitors flexibility in the way they manage content, schedule shows, control projectors and automate cinema operations.
The XP-D Series 2 server also delivers remarkable ease-of-operation that virtually erases the learning curve for theater personnel. Built in the U.S., it is a smart alternative for theater owners who want a comprehensive solution for all Digital Cinema formats and standards.
The XP-D Series 2 server supports a full range of established TMS systems, such as those offered by Cinedigm™, Unique, Dvidea, YMagis and Arts Alliance Media. "The XP-D is designed from the ground up with a flexible core media architecture," said Rajesh Ramachandran, CTO of Qube Cinema. "This means it will work hand-in-hand with a variety of TMS technologies and will be easy to update as the Digital Cinema specifications evolve."
The robust hardware, built-in flexibility and ease of upgrades can easily accommodate customized TMS software solutions as well. Explained Eric Bergez, Qube director of sales and marketing, "We've focused our product development on anticipating the needs of both exhibitors and TMS integrators. Whether they are working to meet the challenge of integrating Virtual Print Fee (VPF) financing, or looking for compatibility with custom TMS software, Qube's technology can provide an effective, future-proof solution."
The Qube XP-D Series 2 server forms the backbone of Qube's suite of digital cinema technologies and offers exhibitors an easy upgrade path to the new Qube Xi 4K IMB. The XP-D stores and plays back all the content exhibitors want to present, from pre-show advertising and trailers to features and alternative content. Along with JPEG2000 and MPEG file formats, the XP-D supports a wide range of video and audio compression standards, on-screen titles and captions, and multiple stereoscopic 3D systems including live-streamed 3D content.
A clean user interface, multi-language controls and drag-and-drop functionality make it easy to assemble, manage and automate theater programs. Qube XP-D servers also provide a web interface so exhibitors can manage their servers over the network from any location.
The past year has seen a renewed push from Qube on customer support for exhibitors and distributors. When requested, Qube technicians can remotely access a Qube XP-D server via the web interface, ensuring systems stay up and running. “Digital technologies still represent disproportionately high percentage of technical issues for all exhibitors,” noted Bergez, “so we have expanded our service organization and our 24/7 hotline for technical assistance. With teams of engineers based in North America, Europe and Asia, live help is always available whenever it's needed.”
The Qube XP-D Series 2 server is now shipping. CinemaCon attendees will have the chance to get hands-on experience with the system, and meet the Qube Cinema team at the show's inaugural event in Las Vegas, at Caesar's Palace booth 407A. CinemaCon (formerly ShoWest,) is the official convention of NATO, the North American Theater Owners organization.
